Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 18, 2026

Characterization of Thymus-dependent and Thymus-independent Immunoglobulin Isotype Responses in Mice Using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay
Published on: September 7, 2018
Learning from inborn errors of immunity and secondary immune deficiencies about vaccine immunogenicity, efficacy, and
Nicholas E Peters1, Adrian M Shields1, Sophie Hambleton2
1Clinical Immunology Service, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
Abstract:
Since its discovery in the late 18th century, the role of vaccination in preventing death and disease has expanded across many infectious diseases and cancer. Key to our understanding of vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy is knowledge of the immune system itself. Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) represent a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by impaired function of the immune system. Patients with IEI can have variable responses to vaccinations, depending on the nature and extent of the defect. Studies performed during the recent COVID-19 pandemic have brought unique insight into vaccine immunogenicity in individuals with IEI, knowledge that can be extended to the growing number of patients with secondary immunodeficiency arising from malignancy, organ transplantation, autoimmune conditions, and their treatments. In this review, we describe vaccine immunogenicity in IEI alongside their equivalent secondary immunodeficiencies and discuss what lessons can be learned about immunization strategies more broadly.
Related Concept Videos
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature...
Vaccinations
Special Features of Adaptive Immunity
The primary cell types involved in adaptive immunity are T cells and B cells. Each type has a unique role in defending the body against pathogens. T cells are responsible for cell-mediated immunity. They identify and eliminate infected cells directly,...
Active versus Passive Immunity
Active Immunity
Active immunity refers to the resistance one develops...
Development of Immunocompetence
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
Cells of the Adaptive Immune Response

